Rainmaker are a four-piece screamo/post-hardcore band from Eslöv, Sweden that formed in 2012. Though not officially disbanded, they haven't been particularly active since 2018. Their discography is quite small, consisting of just a demo, a full-length (put out by Dog Knights Productions), and a split with the excellent Italian band Øjne. Sonically, they fuse the forlorn catharsis of screamo with the more hard-hitting and technical elements of post-hardcore, with passages indebted to post-rock (with guitars awash in reverb and delay). This band is incredibly dynamic, going through a litany of sound and emotion in the span of just 8 tracks on their LP, and a single fantastic contribution to their split. I wish we got more output from them because this is legitamately great stuff, but for now we're lucky to have just this. Enjoy.
Vs Self are a three-piece screamo/emo band from Apple Valley, California that formed in 2018. I know I'm late to the game with this band, since they've garnered a pretty strong following within the past few years. Their skeletal approach of drums, one guitar, and two vocals really works in their favour, as there's this melancholic, atmospheric spaciousness amidst the instrumental noodling that makes these songs stand out, with lyrics that really cut straight to the point. Their sadly relatable and anthemic, suited for both bedroom and live show scream-alongs. I'm sure most are at least tangentially aware of this band by now, but if not, enjoy.
